Three Sammamish women convert a classic American burger joint into a vibrant Indian fusion restaurant 

Indian food—flavorful and mouthwatering—reflects India’s vibrant and diverse culture. Red Robin—a hamburger franchise founded in Seattle in 1969—is known for its American comfort foods and playful decor. Three Sammamish women are combining these two food cultures in their Indian fusion restaurant, Masthi Bar and Grill, located in the former Issaquah Red Robin building.  

Sravani Kumbum, 47, Preethi Chitneni, 39, and Mayuri Karra, 38, aim to bring the flavors of India to their community through traditional and fusion foods while honoring their building’s history of American culture.  

For Masthi’s owners, differentiating themselves with fusion food and fun experiences is key.  

“The last thing we wanted was to seclude ourselves to just being another Indian restaurant,” Chitneni said. 

Masthi, which means fun in Hindi, combines the playfulness of the original building with the vibrant flavors and musical sounds of India.  

“You can walk in and still see aspects of Red Robin, like the furniture. However, there is that Indian culture that is present as well with our dishes and atmosphere,” Chitneni said in an interview with the Sammamish Independent. 

Masthi’s menu aims to appeal to a wide audience. It features traditional Indian dishes fused with other cuisines, like masala french fries that fuse Indian and American foods and rasmalai tres leches, which fuses Indian and Latin American desserts. 

Beyond serving fusion food in a fun environment, Masthi offers experiences like karaoke and trivia nights to showcase the joyfulness of Indian culture. 

Masthi’s efforts have been well-received by its customers, like Vikas Nijhawan, 50, of Sammamish.  

“[Masthi] graciously agreed to accommodate a large group of 50 people only a few days before the event. The food was delicious and plentiful…and the owner was very attentive and generous to ensure we had a great experience,” Nijhawan said. 

Masthi Bar and Grill is located at 1085 Lake Drive in Issaquah.